Afterschool STEM Mentoring Program
Specially designed to inspire and support high school students with a keen interest in having a career in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).
Inspiring the Next Generation
of Innovators in STEM!
The Afterschool STEM Mentoring Program (ASMP) provides an opportunity for girls and boys from around the world to explore their interests in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
High school students will participate in 12 week all-virtual sessions focusing on essential STEM skills and fields, innovation competence education, self-awareness and social impact. Industry professionals and academics will enrich their STEM knowledge and skills through interactive hands-on workshops and seminars on a variety of STEM topics, to broaden students’ knowledge and perspectives.
The program embraces team projects and presentations that offer potential solutions to real-world challenges, with an emphasis on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Students who complete the program earn the STEM Future Ready Achievement Certificate awarded by AfriteQ Academy. Mentors who complete the program earn the STEM Mentor Ready Achievement Certificate awarded by AfriteQ Academy.
Roadmap to ASMP 25
Mentees Pre-application
In this phase, high school students will submit their first application to the Afterschool STEM Mentoring Program indicating their interest.
Mentees Skills Development
In this phase, high school students will take part in a 1-month online skills development session to prepare them for the demands of the program. (refer to the guide)
Mentors Application
In this phase, STEM experts will submit their first application to the Afterschool STEM Mentoring Program indicating their interest.
Mentors Skills Development
In this phase, potential mentors will take part in a 2-weeks online skills development session to prepare them for the demands of the program. (refer to the guide)
Applications to ASMP25
At this phase, high school students and STEM Experts will be invited to take part in the program after going through a screening process based on their performance from phase 2 & 4.
ASMP25 Begins
Successful high school students and STEM Experts will advance into the program as mentees and mentors for a 12 weeks online mentoring and capstone project experience in STEM.
Program Timeline
Mentees Pre-application
September 15 - October 27, 2024
Mentees Skills Development
November 11 - December 08, 2024
Mentors Application
Novermber 11 - December 11, 2024
Mentors Skills Development
January 04 - 12, 2025
Applications to ASMP25
March 01 - 15, 2025
ASMP25 Begins - Kick-off Session
April 05, 2025 - 12:00PM (WAT)
ASMP25 Mentoring Begins
April 05, 2025
ASMP25 Mentoring Ends
July 28, 2025
Mentees: Who can apply?
- Age Range: Must be a high school student between the ages of 13-17.
- Academic Standing: (1) Must have a strong interest in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields. (2) Should maintain a good academic record, with particular emphasis on performance in STEM subjects.
- Location: Must have an internet-accessible computer, smartphone or other digital device to access the virtual program content and participate in online dialogue sessions.
- Commitment: Must be able to commit to the entire duration of the mentorship program, including weekly sessions and any associated activities. Should demonstrate a genuine desire to learn, grow, and engage actively with their mentor.
- Parental/Guardian Consent: Must have permission from a parent or guardian to participate in the program.
- Application Requirements: Must complete the pre-application form, including providing a brief personal statement outlining their interest in STEM and reasons for applying.
Mentors: Who can apply?
Mentors act as role models, offering advice on career paths, personal development, and overcoming challenges.
- Age Range: Must be a university student (preferably in their third year or above), a recent graduate, or a professional in a STEM field.
- Educational/Professional Background: Should have a strong foundation in a STEM discipline, with relevant academic qualifications or professional experience.
- Experience: Prior experience in mentoring, teaching, or leadership roles is preferred but not mandatory.
- Commitment: Must be able to commit to the entire duration of the mentorship program, including weekly sessions and any associated activities. Should demonstrate a genuine passion for mentoring and supporting the growth and development of young students.
- Availability: Must be available for scheduled mentorship sessions and flexible in accommodating the mentee's needs.
- Communication Skills: Must possess strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to provide guidance and feedback effectively.
- Application Requirements: Must complete the mentor pre-application form, including a personal statement outlining their motivation to become a mentor and goals for the mentorship relationship.
It was a fun and enlightening process. Unlike the previous SWE competitions where we worked alone, we had to work in groups this time. This was a bitter-sweet journey of arguments, teamwork, criticism, contradiction of ideas and compromise. It has taught us how to be good team members. We also had mentors to guide us all the way. Personally, my mentor was one in a million. She was able to teach me several things about all aspects of life without encroaching on my personal space. She taught me several things that I would not have been able to learn elsewhere. She was patient enough to answer all my questions. It was in all, a jolly good ride.
